I have been shooting sports and wildlife for just over 2 years and have that under control. As of late I want to get into doing some portrait and still work and find that even with is and a monopod I need to be able to set it up and leave it.
So with little to no idea whats best I understand I am asking a lot.
currently using a 7d. In the process of getting my 17-55 2.8 , have a 50mm and a 28-135 I am sure most setups will work for this. I would also like to be able to move up to 300 2.8 or 400 2.8 lenses and tcs for some longer stuff.
With that info what base head combo would be a nice place to start?
I also use a grip on the 7d, not sure how that will work with plates and such.

wow those look like nice tripods but abit pricy for my first one.
I was hoping to get a usable piece of equipment that did no cost more than my camera or lens. I did some looking and came across this unit
Vanguard Alta Pro 264AB 4-Section Aluminum Tripod with SBH-100 Ball Head
is a ball head ok with a larger lens?

For a 300/400 2.8 you will need the best combo you can afford. Of course Gitzo & RRS come to mind. For the D7K + 17-55 2.8 you probably don't need a $800+ setup and the setup you suggested is excellent for that use, however, a 400 2.8 costs thousands of dollars and it's very heavy so for that I can't see an alternative for investing in an expensive quality setup. I suggest the Gitzo GT2531 with a Markins Q10 or RSS BH-55 ball head.